A Dog’s Purpose is Coming to Theaters – Here’s Why Adoption Rates Will Skyrocket
Just as some of us were finally getting over Marley and Me, another pup-centric tale comes along and tugs at our heartstrings: A Dog’s Purpose. Based on the book of the same name, A Dog’s Purpose tells the story of a dog’s journey through multiple lives as he (and we) discover the purpose of our furry four-legged friends (and life in general).
A Dog’s Purpose will take you on an emotional joyride as you view things from the world of a beautiful dog!
The film hits theaters January 27, but you can buy the book right now.
I have no doubt dog lovers will be the first in line to see this film, but I also have a sneaky suspicion that we’ll see dog adoption rates go through the roof until it leaves theaters.
A Dog’s Purpose and Higher Adoption Rates
A Dog’s Purpose gives us a first-hand look at the world from a dog’s eyes, and the joys of owning a dog, They comfort us when we’re sad, and share in our joy when times are good. It wil be hard not to fall in love with the idea of having a dog after watching this film.
I’m ready to go out and adopt another dog just from watching the trailer.
I have little doubt that dog adoption rates will skyrocket because of this movie. And that’s a great thing for people who are prepared and capable of taking care of a dog.
Don’t Adopt If You’re Not Ready
Adopting a dog is a serious responsibility. While films like A Dog’s Purpose reveal the carefree and joyful aspects of owning a dog, these furry living creatures require a great deal of attention, love and care.
According to the ASPCA, 1.4 million dogs are adopted each year. Another 1.2 million dogs are euthanized.
About 35% of dogs who enter the shelter are adopted, and 31% are euthanized. The remaining 26% enter shelters as strays and are returned to their owners.
A study from PetFinder found that the top 10 reasons for giving up a dog (a.k.a. relinquishing a dog to a shelter) include:
- Moving
- Landlord doesn’t allow pets
- Too many pets in the household
- Costs of caring for the pet
- Personal problems
- Having inadequate facilities
- Cannot find homes for puppies
- Lack of time
- Pet illness
- Biting or aggression
While it may be tempting to run out and adopt a dog right after watching A Dog’s Purpose, it’s important to make sure you’re truly ready to bring a dog into your home.
If you’re not ready, please don’t adopt. Otherwise, your pup may wind up being one of the millions of dogs who wind up in shelters each year.
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5 Signs You’re Not Ready for a Dog
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You’re Never Home
You’re always out and about. Dogs are pack animals. While you don’t have to be with your dog 24/7, you do have to devote time to feeding, exercise and play time. If you work long hours, travel often or have a very busy social life, it may not be the right time to get a dog.
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You’re Not Financially Ready
Dogs, like people, cost money. As unromantic as that sounds, it’s the truth. Dogs require yearly vaccinations, medical care when needed, a well-balanced diet, toys and other things.
Even if you invest in pet insurance, emergency visits and surgeries can and do happen.
If you are not financially ready to take on the responsibility of a dog, don’t bring one home.
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You’re Not Ready to Give Up Your Immaculate Home
Even the best of dogs have accidents from time to time. And it’s been scientifically proven that dogs shed, so don’t expect your home to be completely hair-free (even if they have a short coat).
Dogs require love and care, but they also require more cleaning (okay, technically it’s your home that will need some extra cleaning).
If you’re not ready to give up your immaculate home, you may not be ready for a dog.
Just to be clear, I’m not saying that dog owners can’t have immaculate homes. But owning a dog will require you to clean up more often, and deal with accidents from time to time.
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You’re Not Ready to Settle Down
I’m not talking about marriage here. But when you adopt a dog, you commit to caring for another living, breathing being for at least a decade (hopefully). If you’re thinking of backpacking across Europe or moving across the country to live on a farm for a few years, now may not be the right time to adopt a dog.
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You Don’t Have an Appropriate Environment
If you live in an apartment or condo, owning a dog can be a little tricky. One of the biggest issues for renters is that landlords often don’t allow pets in the home. Unfortunately, mnay dogs wind up back in the shelter just days after adoption because the landlord finds out about the pet.
Even if pets are allowed, you’ll need to be committed to walking your dog each day if you don’t have a fenced in yard.
If your home is short on space and you have no yard, it may be best to get a smaller pet – or an aquarium.
If You Are Adopting, Make Sure You’re Prepared
If you’re financially and mentally ready to adopt a dog, you may not know what you’ll need or how to get your home ready for your new furry friend.
Some of the many supplies you’ll need include:
- Food
- Water and food bowls
- Toys (lots of them)
- Leash and collar (or harness)
- Dog shampoo and nail clippers
- Brush
- Bed or crate (check out this helpful product review guide to help you find the right crate)
While all of these items are important, the most important supply you’ll need is your love. Dogs, as pack animals, require a great deal of love, attention and bonding time.
These are just a few of the many items you’ll need. I also found this ebook to be helpful when planning for my puppy’s homecoming.
Whether you’re a proud dog owner or just have love for our canine friends, A Dog’s Purpose will give you a newfound appreciation for dogs. But remember – owning a dog is a great responsibility. Make sure you’re ready to bring in a new addition to the family before committing to adoption.
If you’re welcoming a new dog into the family, congratulations and enjoy the many unforgettable years you’ll spend together.
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” – Josh Billings
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